New BMW X3 launched at Rs 44.9 lakh

BMW India has added a fourth model to its India line-up with the new X3 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), priced at Rs 44.9 lakh for the lower-spec Expedition and Rs 49.9 lakh for the top-spec xLine trim(ex-showroom prices). Both variants will only be availabe with an all-aluminium 2.0-litre diesel motor putting out 187bhp and 400Nm of peak torque, capable of hitting 100kmph in 8.1 seconds and achieve a top speed of 210kmph. Power is delivered via an 8-speed ZF automatic ‘box which also has cruise control and helps to deliver a claimed fuel efficiency of 18.56kmpl.

The X3 has the typical BMW family resemblance thanks to the twin circular headlamps and the iconic kideny-shaped grille. Few will mistake it for anything other than the X5’s younger brother. On the outside, the compact SAV’s variants can be differenciated courtesy of badgeing and a ….. The insides on the higher-spec xLine get more premium upholstery and wooden trims, while the lower Expedition trim misses out on larger 18-inch alloys wheels and Sport+ mode. The alloys look like they were lifted off the larger X5, and shrunk slightly which has resulted in them looking quite sober in comparison.

The larger X5 is well-liked in the Indian market and BMW hopes that the X3 will rope in more customers. The German manufacturer is also planning to introduce 4 new models though a specific timeline for the launches hasn’t been confirmed. Local production at BMW’s Chennai plant means that costs have been kept prices competitive compared to its main rivals, the Audi Q5 (Rs 46.9 lakh), Land Rover Freelander2 (Rs 39.8 lakh), Volvo’s XC60 (Rs 42.5 lakh) and Porsche Macan (Rs 98.2 lakh).

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